Overview

• The Civil Aviation Safety Authority and Australian Transport Safety Bureau have opened investigations into the cause and handling of the overhead-locker blaze.
• Virgin Australia said the probe’s findings could prompt permanent changes to its carry-on lithium battery guidelines.
• Cabin crew extinguished the fire mid-flight and firefighters removed the affected bag after landing, with one passenger treated for smoke inhalation.
• The Boeing 737-8FE was inspected for damage and a replacement aircraft was sourced, delaying the return service by about five hours.
• The incident underscores rising aviation concerns over lithium-ion battery fire risks and follows global moves by airlines and regulators to tighten battery carriage rules.